Santa Monica College Recap: October 14 Workplace Violence Incident at Center for Media and Design

Santa Monica, October 21, 2024 – The community at Santa Monica College (SMC) continues to process the tragic workplace shooting that occurred on October 14, 2024, at the Center for Media and Design (CMD). The incident resulted in the loss of Custodial Operations Manager Felicia Hudson and the subsequent death of the suspect, SMC custodian Davon Dean. Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) remains the lead investigating agency in the case, which has sent waves of grief and shock throughout the campus.

Following the incident, SMC leadership and police worked in coordination with SMPD to provide timely updates and ensure campus safety. SMPD confirmed that the event was an act of workplace violence, not a random attack. Below is a detailed timeline of the college's immediate response to the shooting and answers to pressing questions raised by the SMC community.

Timeline of Events:

- 9:50 p.m.: Custodial Operations Manager Felicia Hudson was fatally shot by the suspect, SMC custodian Davon Dean, at CMD. Dean fled the scene immediately after the incident.

- 9:53 p.m.: SMCPD was notified by SMPD of the shooting, prompting a full-scale response. Law enforcement from SMCPD, SMPD, and the Santa Monica Fire Department arrived on the scene shortly after.

- 10:01 p.m.: A lockdown of CMD and other campus facilities was initiated.

- 10:21 p.m.: The gunshot victim, Hudson, was transported to Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center.

- 11:00 p.m.: SMC senior staff convened at SMCPD headquarters for briefings while the investigation continued.

Safety and Support Measures:

In response to the shooting, SMC canceled on-ground classes and moved services online from October 16 to October 20, 2024, allowing time for the community to heal. A candlelight vigil in Hudson’s memory was held on October 17, and a celebration of life followed on October 18 at the Broad Stage.

SMCPD has increased patrols across campuses, and mental health resources, including counseling sessions and wellness events, are being made available for staff and students. Additionally, SMC leadership is reviewing safety protocols and procedures to strengthen security measures.

Community Impact:

As more information emerges from the ongoing investigation, SMC is working closely with the SMPD to ensure transparency while respecting the constraints of the case. The college remains committed to supporting its community during this difficult time.

For more information on the incident and available resources, please visit SMC’s official news page or SMPD’s press release on the case.

Atop the Big Top: Workers Clean Cirque du Soleil Tent Following KOOZA's Opening Weekend

Workers suspended from harnesses cleaned the towering Cirque du Soleil Big Top on Monday, October 21, 2024, following the opening weekend of KOOZA at the Santa Monica Pier. The internationally acclaimed Cirque du Soleil production kicked off this past weekend and will run through January 5, 2025, with its iconic white Big Top already a fixture on the Pier. KOOZA brings a stunning blend of traditional circus performances, featuring slapstick comedy and breathtaking acrobatics. From the High Wire to the thrilling Wheel of Death, the show offers an unforgettable experience that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. Santa Monica, with its long history of hosting Cirque du Soleil since 1987, now welcomes KOOZA’s return, adding another exciting chapter to the city's cultural landscape. A must-see event for both locals and visitors alike.

SMC Superintendent/President Dr. Kathryn E. Jeffery Addresses the College Community

Santa Monica College Superintendent and President, Dr. Kathryn E. Jeffery, addressed the college community following a tragic incident of workplace violence that occurred on October 14 at the Center for Media and Design. The act resulted in the death of the college’s custodial manager, Felicia Hudson.

"Our hearts are with Felicia's family and her loved ones," Dr. Jeffery said in her address. She noted that in response to the tragedy, the college has provided counseling services to help personnel and colleagues cope with the shock and grief from the incident.

Dr. Jeffery expressed gratitude to law enforcement, including the Santa Monica Police Department, the Santa Monica College Police Department, and other first responders, for their swift and ongoing support. She acknowledged the emotional toll this event has taken on the college community, noting that everyone is reacting in different ways.

"Santa Monica College has endured much over its nearly 100-year history," Dr. Jeffery said, assuring that the college community would navigate this difficult time together. "We are going to get through this, and our thoughts and prayers are with Felicia’s family during this difficult time."

Santa Monica’s Coastal Bike Trail Bustles with Activity Amid Stunning October Weather

On a beautiful, sunny Sunday, with temperatures in the mid-70s, Santa Monica Closeup's photojournalist Fabian took to the famous Santa Monica Beach Bike Path, also known as the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, on October 20, 2024.

In a lively scene, cyclists and pedestrians filled the trail, enjoying the scenic route with the iconic Santa Monica Pier Ferris Wheel in the background. The Marvin Braude Bike Trail, a beloved 22-mile paved route, runs along the Santa Monica Bay shoreline, extending from Will Rogers State Beach to Torrance County Beach. It remains a popular destination for both locals and visitors, offering breathtaking views and a quintessential Southern California experience.

Venice Beach Artist Seren Hkse Shares Her Journey of Art and Struggle

Venice Beach, October 20, 2024 – Seren Hkse, a local street artist, was seen working on a new painting at the Venice Beach Boardwalk on Sunday. Known for using acrylic pens, Seren has been creating and selling her artwork on the boardwalk for years, despite living in a homeless shelter. She described her art as a reflection of Venice’s unique culture and shared her hope for a future where artists like herself can thrive. In a candid conversation with Santa Monica Closeup’s photojournalist Fabian Lewkowicz, Seren opened up about her struggles. “Today's my last day here,” she said, referencing an ongoing personal challenge involving harassment and theft of her art supplies. Despite the setbacks, she remains resilient, continuing to create and envision a future with a dedicated workspace for her projects. Seren spoke passionately about the importance of art and community. "This is home, and I want to be home," she shared, explaining her connection to the Venice area and her dreams of opening a gallery space. Even in the face of adversity, Seren's art and spirit continue to inspire those who encounter her work at the boardwalk. Her story is a testament to the creativity and resilience that defines Venice Beach, a place where art and struggle often walk hand in hand.

Falun Gong Practitioners March in Santa Monica, Urging End to Persecution and Organ Harvesting in China

Santa Monica, October 20, 2024: Falun Gong practitioners marched along the Third Street Promenade, holding signs that read "Stop Persecution of Falun Gong in China" and "Falun Dafa is Good," in an effort to raise awareness about the persecution faced by Falun Gong adherents in China.

Palisades Park has become a weekly gathering spot for these practitioners, where they not only engage in their spiritual exercises but also use the opportunity to highlight the plight of Falun Gong believers. Their mission is to bring attention to the injustices carried out by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and its affiliated organizations, urging for global solidarity against human rights violations.

One of the core issues raised is the alarming practice of forced organ harvesting, particularly impacting Falun Gong adherents and other political prisoners in China. Reports of political prisoners being executed to meet organ demands have generated widespread concern and calls for international intervention.

Falun Gong, also known as "Falun Dafa," is a spiritual discipline with roots in Buddhist traditions, emphasizing truth, compassion, and tolerance. For those interested in learning more about its teachings, FalunDafa.org provides a wealth of information on its philosophy, exercises, and the inspiring stories of practitioners.

 

Artist Eder Champions Community Clean-Up and Accountability at Venice Beach

On a bright Saturday morning, Santa Monica Closeup had the pleasure of sitting down with the multifaceted artist and musician Eder at Venice Beach. The setting was none other than our picturesque beach, where Eder shared his thoughts on environmental responsibility and the artist's role in community engagement.

"Welcome to our joint effort," Eder began, pointing out the unattended palm tree branches scattered around the beach. "It seems some people have started picking up these branches after seeing my work here. I'm all about filling in gaps where they exist," he explained, emphasizing his proactive approach to keeping public spaces clean.

Eder, who describes himself as an artist capable of creating music and building structures, expresses a strong connection to his surroundings. "I've established my headquarters here, right on public property," he said with a smile, indicating his commitment to community betterment. He highlighted his efforts to maintain cleanliness, even when local authorities have not addressed fallen debris.

The discussion soon turned to the broader implications of his actions. "This is my art piece. I'm calling it 'Let's All Be Accountable.' It's about demonstrating that if I’m held accountable for enjoying a day at the beach, then why aren't the authorities held accountable for their actions?" Eder questioned, challenging the status quo.

He also shared a personal story of how he had been affected by local enforcement policies. "They took everything from me – started with a tent, which wasn't really a tent but a canopy. Then, all I had left was a blanket, some food, and my ideas," he recounted, his voice tinged with frustration yet also a sense of determination.

Despite these challenges, Eder remains undeterred. "I'm not just here to talk; I'm here to act. I clean up, I create, and I lead by example. That's the essence of my project here. If they take my setup, then they're just doing the job I started – keeping our beach beautiful," he concluded, inviting everyone to join him in this endeavor.

As the interview wrapped up, Eder stood barefoot in the sand, a testament to his resilience and commitment. "You can take my shoes, but you can't take my spirit. I'm here to show that through positive action, we can all contribute to a better, cleaner, and more accountable community," he said, his gaze sweeping across the beach he loves so dearly.

Stay tuned to Santa Monica Closeup for more real stories from our vibrant community.

Back on the Beach: 14-Year-Old Runaway Billy Returns to Venice and Eludes Police

On Saturday, October 19, 2024, Billy, a 14-year-old runaway previously taken into custody by the Los Angeles Police Department on October 14, managed to escape just 24 hours after being detained. He was spotted back at Venice Beach, near the skate park by local residents John Allgood and Daisy.

Upon seeing Billy, John Allgood, aware of the legal repercussions of harboring a runaway, promptly informed the police of Billy's presence. This development distressed Billy, who then planned to leave the area to avoid recapture. However, before he could depart, the police arrived at the scene. At the time, Billy was still at Daisy's Healing Arts Temple at Venice Beach but fled upon their arrival.

John Allgood and Daisy engaged with the police to discuss the situation. The police, who have juvenile detectives working on the case and are coordinating with social workers, advised John and Daisy to call 911 if they see Billy again. The approach aims to handle the case with sensitivity, focusing on the welfare of the young runaway while maintaining legal protocols.

United for Hope: Santa Monica Mounted Police Escort ‘Out of the Darkness’ Walk for Suicide Prevention

On Saturday, October 19, 2024, the Santa Monica Mounted Police Officers played a vital role in escorting participants of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's (AFSP) "Out of the Darkness Community Walk" through Palisades Park. The event drew hundreds of supporters, united in their shared mission to raise awareness and combat suicide.

The "Out of the Darkness" walks, now a fixture in cities across the U.S., have become a symbol of hope, promoting conversations about mental health and reducing stigma around suicide. Since its inception in 2004, the movement has empowered individuals to share their stories, fostering a sense of community and understanding. Families, friends, and colleagues walked side-by-side, honoring those lost to suicide while supporting one another in their journeys toward healing and mental well-being.

AFSP remains at the forefront of suicide prevention efforts nationwide, focusing on public education, research, and advocacy. Their mission is clear: to create a world where mental health is better understood, and suicide is no longer a silent epidemic. These community walks serve as a platform for individuals affected by suicide to come together, raise awareness, and offer support. The hashtag #TogetherToFightSuicide has become a powerful rallying cry for participants, symbolizing the collective effort to address this pressing public health issue.

Through grassroots programs, fundraising for research, and community outreach, AFSP connects people from all walks of life, including those personally impacted by suicide, mental health professionals, educators, and leaders, creating a united front in the fight against suicide.

Fourteen-Year-Old Runaway Reveals Life on the Streets Just Days Before LAPD Custody

IIn a poignant interview posted today on the popular YouTube channel Soft White Underbelly, 14-year-old runaway Billy shared his harrowing journey to the streets. The interview comes just days before his custody by LAPD on October 14, 2024, as documented on Santa Monica Closeup. Born in Inglewood, California, Billy’s life was fraught with instability and trauma from a young age, moving frequently due to family issues until settling in Lancaster. His early childhood was marked by abuse and addiction within his family, leading to him being placed under the care of his aunt.

Billy detailed his experiences of living under his aunt's guardianship for a decade, a period that provided stability despite ongoing personal struggles. From habitual running away beginning at age seven to engaging in petty theft and fighting to protect his siblings, his actions reflected a tumultuous upbringing. His narrative took a darker turn as he recounted a severe incident of violence involving his sister, which resulted in police intervention and his subsequent detention in juvenile hall.

Describing his life as a series of escape attempts from various caregivers and group homes, Billy’s story is a stark reminder of the failings of the child welfare system to provide stable, supportive environments for vulnerable youth. His journey through homelessness introduced him to a community of skaters and eventually led him to Venice Beach, where he met Daisy, a local healer who took him under her wing. Daisy plans to support Billy through an emancipation process, aiming to provide him a semblance of stability and control over his life.

Throughout the interview, Billy expressed a mixture of resilience and resignation to the hardships he’s faced, revealing a deep-seated desire for normalcy and a chance at a better future. His story underscores the critical challenges faced by runaways and the importance of supportive community networks that can offer more than just temporary shelter, but a chance to heal and rebuild.